Okla Jones

11 hours ago | essence.com | Okla Jones

After decades of steady work, character roles, and unwavering perseverance, Abbott Elementary has become the defining chapter in William Stanford Davis’ long-running career—and by no means the last. Known to millions as Mr. Johnson, the delightfully offbeat and endlessly wise custodian of Philadelphia’s most charming fictional school, Davis has turned what began as a recurring spot into an award-winning, fan-favorite presence.

2 days ago | essence.com | Okla Jones

For its silver anniversary, the BET Awards is pulling out all the stops. The network announced today that four-time EMMY winner, and notable comedian Kevin Hart will host the 2025 BET Awards. Airing live from Los Angeles’ Peacock Theater on Monday, June 9 at 8pm ET the ceremony promises to deliver an unforgettable celebration of Black excellence in entertainment, art, and culture.

2 days ago | essence.com | Okla Jones

“I hope the people love these characters as much as we love these characters.”In Sinners, Ryan Coogler’s genre-defying thriller, Wunmi Mosaku delivers a layered and emotionally resonant performance as Annie—a spiritual guide, healer, and pillar of a Jim Crow-era Southern community grappling with a rising, mysterious evil. In conversation with ESSENCE, she described Annie as someone deeply connected to both land and legacy.

3 days ago | essence.com | Okla Jones

INDIO, CALIFORNIA – APRIL 19: Cynthia Erivo attends YouTube + Coachella 2025 at Empire Polo Club on April 19, 2025 in Indio, California. (Photo by Rodin Eckenroth/Getty Images for YouTube Music) As we enter the final full week of April, celebrities from various industries are coming out to celebrate peers, projects, and products—and we’re here to give you a glimpse of it all.

6 days ago | essence.com | Okla Jones

Happy Friday, folks. Now that Spring is in full bloom, artists from all genres are putting out some amazing music to compliment the beautiful weather. From Southern-inspired Hip-Hop to the soulful sounds of R&B, this week’s list of new releases has something for everyone.